Wireless communication system within a mechanical room

ABSTRACT

A wireless communication system includes a plurality of sensors and a device. Each sensor is configured to measure data and communicate over a network using low power signal communication. The device is connected to an in-wall power source and configured to wirelessly communicate over the network using low power signal communication. Further, the device is configured to transmit data from the sensors to a remote gateway using high power signal communication.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to, and is a continuation-in-part of,U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/870,000 entitled “BACKFLOWPREVENTION SYSTEM TEST COCK WITH A FLUID SENSOR” filed May 8, 2020,which in turn claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 62/844,912 entitled “Backflow Prevention System Test Cock WithA Fluid Sensor,” filed May 8, 2019, and U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/869,195 entitled “Wireless Communication SystemWithin A Mechanical Room,” filed Jul. 1, 2019, the entire contents ofeach of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety for allpurposes.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The subject disclosure relates to backflow prevention valves andassemblies, and more particularly to a device for continuouslymonitoring the status of the backflow prevention system. Further, thesubject disclosure relates to backflow prevention valves and otherdevices used in mechanical rooms, and more particularly to wirelesscommunication within and out of mechanical rooms.

BACKGROUND

In many water systems, a backflow prevention valve and assembly,sometimes referred to as a backflow preventer (BFP), assures that afluid, and any solids therein, flows in only a desired direction, i.e.,a forward direction. As backsiphonage, or back pressure, may causecontamination and health problems, a BFP prevents flow in an undesireddirection, i.e., a backward or reverse direction. For example, backflowprevention valves and assemblies are installed in buildings, such asresidential homes, and commercial buildings and factories, to protectpublic water supplies by preventing the reverse flow of contaminatedwater back into the public water supply.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a typical backflow preventer (BFP) 100 includesan inlet shutoff valve 105 and an outlet shutoff valve 110 with abackflow prevention valve 115 positioned between the inlet and outletshutoff valves where the forward flow direction F is shown. It is notedthat many different configurations of backflow prevention assemblies arecommercially available, each being different in configuration, and theBFP 100 presented here is merely an example.

There are 2 classes of BFP—testable and non-testable. Testable BFPs areperiodically checked for performance. The period can be different fordifferent applications and different jurisdictions, but in some casestestable BFPs are tested an average of once a year to assure properoperating condition. Specifically, fluid pressure measurements are takenat specified locations in the BFP 100. To facilitate these pressuremeasurements, the BFP 100 includes a number of Test Cocks (TCs) 102a-102 d (generally 102), each of which includes a ball valve, where theTC 102 is threadably connected to couple with a fluid path within theBFP 100 via a corresponding TC port 125 a-125 d (generally 125) on theBFP 100.

There are, in the most common implementation, four TCs 102 located onthe BFP 100 in order to allow for temporarily attaching measuringequipment to measure the flow to ensure that the BFP 100 is functioningcorrectly.

Accordingly, a first TC 102 a measures the pressure coming into the BFP100; a second TC 102 b measures the pressure just before a first checkvalve (not shown); a third TC 102 c measures the pressure right afterthe first check valve; and a fourth TC 102 d measures the pressure rightafter a second check valve (not shown).

Again, because of the public safety importance of the BFP, it is often acertified BFP Technician that conducts the testing to confirm that theBFP is in compliance with national standards bodies' requirements.

It is known to use an Electronic Pressure Sensor (EPS) to measure thefluid pressure at different points within the BFP. As such, a commonapproach to implementing an EPS redirects flow from a TC port 125 to theEPS. This redirection, however, is implemented by coupling additionalplumbing to the BFP 100 and oftentimes requires at least the followingitems: 1) an EPS; 2) one or more pipe fittings; 3) copper pipe (thatwill have to be cut to size); 4) one or more elbow fittings; 5) one ormore ball valves; 6) installation equipment including, for example, awrench, a soldering iron and associated solder and flux, etc.; and 7)labor costs for the installation as it needs to be performed by acertified professional.

Through the attachment of measuring equipment (sensors) on the BFPs 100,the BFP could be constantly monitored based on the data output from thesensors which can be measured wirelessly. However, BFPs 100 aregenerally present in mechanical rooms, which are rooms or spaces inbuildings dedicated to the mechanical equipment and its associatedelectrical equipment, as opposed to rooms intended for human occupancyor storage. In large buildings mechanical rooms can be of considerablesize and are often located below ground.

The location and layout of many mechanical rooms disrupt wirelesssignals and makes their use unreliable. Additionally, common modes ofwireless communication to collect the data of the mechanical room, suchas Wi-Fi and cellular data transmission, are power intensive modes whichrequire either more power outlets, which are not commonly available, ora skilled electrician to ruin conduit to hard wire the devices. Last,the data collected from the sensors in the BFPs 100 need to be collectedby a receiver outside the mechanical room to analyze the data.

What is needed is a better wireless communication system for monitoringthe status of a BFP, and for transferring data within, and out of, amechanical room.

SUMMARY

In light of the needs described above, the subject technology relates toa wireless communication system which allows for data to be effectivelycommunicated within and out of a mechanical room with minimal powerconsumption, and can be implemented using devices within the mechanicalroom, including a test cock.

In one aspect of the present disclosure there is a test cock fordetermining an operating condition of a backflow prevention systemcomprising: a body portion having a distal end and a proximal end; aspace defined within the body portion; a distal opening provided on thebody portion at the distal end; a proximal opening provided on the bodyportion at the proximal end, wherein the proximal opening is in fluidconnection with body portion space; a body portion fitting disposed inthe body portion, the body portion fitting providing a fluid connectionwith the body portion space; and a fluid sensor, coupled to the bodyportion fitting, in fluid connection with the body portion space.

The fluid sensor comprises at least one of: a pressure sensor; atemperature sensor; a pH sensor; a salinity sensor; and a wet/drysensor.

The test cock can further comprise a ball valve disposed in the bodyportion in fluid connection with the distal opening and the body portionspace. A spring clip can be provided that couples the fluid sensor tothe body portion fitting.

The test cock can further comprise a system fitting, having a first endand a second end, the second end provided in the body portion proximalopening. A spring clip can couple the system fitting to the body portionproximal end. The body portion proximal end can be configured to rotatewithin the system fitting.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is a backflow prevention systemcomprising a backflow preventer; a system fitting, having a first endand a second end, provided on the backflow preventer; and the test cockreferenced above.

In at least one aspect, the subject technology relates to a wirelesscommunication system located within a mechanical room. The system has avalve including at least one sensor. The sensors are configured towirelessly communicate over a network using low power signalcommunication. The system includes a at least one device configured toconnect to an in-wall power source, the device further configured towirelessly communicate over the network using low power signalcommunication.

In some embodiments a first device is configured to connect to a lightfixture, the first device connected to the in-wall power source via thelight fixture. In some cases, a first device is configured to connect toa wall outlet socket, the first device connected to the in-wall powersource via the wall outlet socket. The low power signal can betransmitted out of the mechanical room via at least one electrical lineof the in-wall power source using power-line communication. In someembodiments, a first device is configured to replace a first lightswitch controlling a light, the first device connected to the in-wallpower source and including a second light switch to control the light.In some embodiments, the system includes a transceiver. The transceiveris configured to receive a signal through the network using low powercommunication, amplify the signal to create a high power signal, andtransmit the high power signal out of the mechanical room.

In some embodiments, the sensors can include one or more of thefollowing: a pressure sensor; a temperature sensor; a pH sensor; asalinity sensor; and a wet/dry sensor. In some cases, the low powersignal communication can be Bluetooth or radio frequency (RF)communication. The sensor can include a transmitter configured totransmit a signal using low power communication and the device caninclude a receiver configured to receive the signal using low powercommunication. In some cases, one of the sensors can include a processorconfigured to analyze data from the first sensor and generate a signalbased on the data and a transmitter configured to transmit the signalbased on the data.

In at least one aspect, the subject technology relates to a wirelesscommunication system located within a mechanical room. The wirelesscommunication system includes a backflow prevention system having abackflow preventer, a system fitting, and a test cock. The systemfitting is provided on the backflow prevention, the system fittinghaving a first end and a second end. The test cock has a body portionhaving a distal end and a corresponding distal opening and a proximalend and a corresponding proximal opening. The proximal and distalopenings are in fluid connection with a space defined within the bodyportion. A body portion fitting is disposed in the body portion, thebody portion fitting providing a fluid connection with the space. Afluid sensor is in the body portion fitting and in fluid connection withthe space, the fluid sensor configured to wirelessly communicate over anetwork using low power signal communication. The second end of thesystem fitting is coupled to the proximal end of the body portion. Thecommunication system includes at least one device configured to connectto an in-wall power source, the device further configured to wirelesslycommunicate over the network using low power signal communication.

In some embodiments, the test sock includes a catch portion provided onthe body portion, wherein an outside diameter of the catch portion isgreater than an outside diameter of the proximal end of the bodyportion. The test cock can also include a catch groove, provided on thebody portion adjacent to the catch portion. The second end of the systemfitting can be sized to receive the catch portion and the system fittingcan include a spring clip configured to couple to the catch groove. Thetest cock further can include a ball valve disposed in the body portionand in fluid connection with the distal opening and the space. In somecases, the test cock further includes a spring clip coupling the fluidsensor to the body portion fitting.

In some embodiments, a first device is configured to connect to a lightfixture or wall outlet socket, or adapt an existing light switch into acommunicating light switch. The low power signal communication can beone of the following: Bluetooth; and radio frequency (RF) communication.In some cases, the low power signal is transmitted out of the mechanicalroom via at least one electrical line of the in-wall power source usingpower-line communication. The wireless communication system can includea transceiver. The transceiver is configured to receive a signal throughthe network using low power communication, amplify the signal to createa high power signal, and transmit the high power signal out of themechanical room.

In at least one aspect, the subject technology relates to a wirelesscommunication system having a plurality of sensors and a light switchdevice. Each sensor is configured to measure data and communicate over anetwork using low power signal communication. The light switch devicehas a double switch box housing and is connected to an in-wall powersource. The light switch device has a light switch on a first side ofthe double switch box housing connected to a light fixture. The lightswitch device has a communication device on a second side of the doubleswitch box housing, the second side opposite the first side. Thecommunication device is configured to communicate with the sensors overthe network using low power signal communication to obtain the data andtransmit the data to a remote gateway using high power signalcommunication. The remote gateway is configured to transmit the data toa cloud. At least one of the plurality of sensors is connected to avalve.

In some embodiments, the low power signal communication includes atleast one of the following: Bluetooth lower energy (BLE), Zigbee,WirelessHART, and RF. In some cases, the communication device isconfigured to transmit the data to the remote gateway using power linecommunication over an electrical line of the in-wall power source, theelectrical line connected to the gateway, and high power wirelesstransmission.

In some embodiments, the valve of the communication system is a testcock for a backflow prevention system. The test cock has a body portionhaving a distal end and a corresponding distal opening and a proximalend and a corresponding proximal opening, the proximal and distalopenings in fluid connection with a space defined within the bodyportion. The test cock has a body portion fitting disposed in the bodyportion, the body portion fitting providing a fluid connection with thespace. The test cock includes a sensor in the body portion fitting, thesensor in fluid connection with the space, wherein the second end of thesystem fitting is coupled to the proximal end of the body portion. Insome embodiments, each sensor includes a radio-frequency identification(RFID) tag, each RFID tag configured to communicate with, and transferpower between, other RFID tags using tag to tag communication.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various aspects of the disclosure are discussed herein with reference tothe accompanying Figures. It will be appreciated that for simplicity andclarity of illustration, elements shown in the drawings have notnecessarily been drawn accurately or to scale. For example, thedimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to otherelements for clarity or several physical components may be included inone functional block or element. Further, where considered appropriate,reference numerals may be repeated among the drawings to indicatecorresponding or analogous elements. For purposes of clarity, however,not every component may be labeled in every drawing. The Figures areprovided for the purposes of illustration and explanation and are notintended as a definition of the limits of the disclosure. In theFigures:

FIG. 1 is a known typical backflow preventer (BFP);

FIG. 2 is a test cock (TC), in accordance with one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 3 is a side cutaway view of the test cock TC of FIG. 2 showing anincorporated Electronic Fluid Sensor (EFS device);

FIG. 4 is a backflow preventer including the TC of FIGS. 2 and 3;

FIG. 5 is a test cock TC in accordance with another aspect of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a BFP system configured to receive the TC of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a close-up of a TC port of the BFP system of FIG. 6;

FIGS. 8A, 8B and 8C depict the insertion of a test cock of FIG. 5 intothe TC port of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 shows the insertion of multiple TCs of FIG. 5 into a BFP system;

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a wireless communication system within amechanical room in accordance with the subject technology;

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a wireless communication system inaccordance with the subject technology;

FIGS. 12a-12d are views of an exemplary light switch device configuredto function as part of a wireless communication system in accordancewith the subject technology;

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of the electrical configuration of anexemplary light switch device configured to function as part of awireless communication system in accordance with the subject technology;and

FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a wireless communication system inaccordance with the subject technology.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The subject technology overcomes many of the known problems associatedwith backflow prevention assemblies and with wireless communication ofdevices within and out of mechanical rooms. The advantages, and otherfeatures of the technology disclosed herein, will become more readilyapparent to those having ordinary skill in the art from the followingdetailed description of certain exemplary embodiments taken incombination with the drawings and wherein like reference numeralsidentify similar structural elements. It should be noted thatdirectional indications such as vertical, horizontal, upward, downward,right, left and the like, are used with respect to the figures and notmeant in a limiting manner.

A test cock (TC) 200, in accordance with one aspect of the presentdisclosure, as shown in FIG. 2, includes an elongated body portion 205,having a space 206 defined therein, with a distal end 210, acorresponding distal opening 212, a proximal end 215 and a correspondingproximal opening 217. As shown in FIG. 2, in one embodiment, each of thedistal and proximal ends 210, 215 is generally cylindrical and each ofthe corresponding distal and proximal openings 212, 217 is generallycircular. A ball valve 220 is located near the distal end 210 and afitting 225 is provided on the body portion 205 between the distal end210 and the proximal end 215. The distal opening 212, the proximalopening 217, the ball valve 220 and the fitting 225 are all in fluidconnection with the body portion space 206. Fluid in the test cock 200flows in a direction P, i.e., from the proximal end 215 to the distalend 210 under normal operation and, therefore, the fitting 225 islocated “upstream” from the ball valve 220. It should be noted that theelongated body portion 205 would be configured to meet any local coderequirements for minimum unobstructed flow.

Referring now to FIG. 3, the fitting 225 is provided to couple the testcock 200 to an Electronic Fluid Sensor (EFS) device 300 that canconstantly monitor a parameter of a fluid in the system. In one aspect,the EFS device 300 can include a pressure sensor to measure the fluidpressure in the system. Alternatively, sensors to measure/monitor otherparameters of the fluid can be provided, for example, but not limitedto, temperature, pH, salinity, a wet/dry sensor (to determine thepresence or absence of a fluid), etc. The fitting 225 can be configuredto receive a portion 305 of the EFS device 300 and a flexible fasteningclip 310 is provided to couple the portion 305 to the fitting 225 with afluid-tight seal. The fastening clip 310 can be an e-clip or a c-clip orthe like. Alternatively, the fitting 225 can be implemented as a key- orsnap-fitting.

In one approach, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure,a BFP fitting 312, i.e., a system fitting, is used to secure the TC 200to the body of a BFP 100. The BFP fitting 312 includes a threaded end315 to attach to the BFP body and a non-threaded end 320 to be receivedin the proximal opening 320 of the TC 200. The non-threaded end 320allows the TC 200 to rotate, i.e., there is no constraining orientation.Another flexible fastening clip 325 is provided to couple the BFPfitting 310 to the TC 200 with a fluid-tight seal. The fastening clip325 can be an e-clip or a c-clip or the like. Alternatively, the fitting225 can be implemented as a key- or snap-fitting.

The EFS device 300 can be powered by a long life battery that could bereplaced at one of the code-required annual tests or when indicated.Alternatively, the EFS device 300 can be hardwired to a continuous powersource, such as an in-wall power line, and/or provided with a batterybackup feature in the event of a power outage. Still further, the EFSdevice 300 can be connected to a control/monitoring system in a numberof ways including, but not limited to, Ethernet, RF or other wirelesstransmission mechanism, etc., where a low-power status could be reportedand addressed.

A BFP system 400 is shown in FIG. 4 and includes a BFP 405 with twoknown TCs 102 b, 102 c installed along with two TCs 200 a, 200 b. Itshould be noted that the two TCs 200 a, 200 b are shown without arespective EFS device being connected for purposes of clarity. In somecases, at least three EFS devices would be deployed to determine thatthe BFP system 400 is functioning properly, i.e., in compliance with anyrelevant code(s) or requirement(s). Alternatively, in other cases, twoEFS devices, or even a single EFS device, can be used.

Referring now to FIG. 5, in accordance with another aspect of thepresent disclosure, a snap-in test cock (TC) 500 provides for theability to swivel 360° along with a quick-disconnect feature, as will bedescribed in more detail below. The snap-in TC 500 includes a bodyportion 505 having a threaded distal end 510, with a correspondingdistal opening 512 and a non-threaded proximal end 515, with acorresponding proximal opening 517. As shown in FIG. 5, in oneembodiment, each of the distal and proximal ends 510, 515 is generallycylindrical and each of the corresponding distal and proximal openings512, 517 is generally circular. As per known TCs, a ball valve 520 isprovided in the body portion 505. The ball valve 520, the proximalopening 517 and the distal opening 512 are all in fluid connection witha lumen provided in the snap-in TC 500.

A catch portion 525 of the body portion 505 has a larger outer diameterthan the proximal end 515. A circumferential catch groove 530 isprovided about the body 505 on the distal side of the catch portion 525where the catch groove 530 has a smaller diameter than the diameter ofthe catch portion 525.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a backflow preventer (BFP) 600 is provided witha plurality of TC ports 605 a-605 d (generally 605) to couple with thesnap-in TC 500, as will be described below. The TC ports 605 arearranged in a manner similar to the BFP 100 described above.

The TC port 605 may be screwed into the body of the BFP 600, as perknown approaches. As shown in FIG. 7, a proximal end 705 of the TC port605 is sized to receive the non-threaded proximal end 515 of the snap-inTC 500. A number of circumferential openings 710 are provided about thecircumference of the TC port 605 and a flexible clip 715, for example, ac-clip, an e-clip or the like, is provided in the openings 710. A depthof the TC port 605 is such that, when the proximal end 515 of thesnap-in TC 500 is inserted, the catch portion 525 will pass the clip715, cause it to deform, and once the catch groove 530 is adjacent theclip 715, the clip 715 will spring back and the snap-in TC 500 will becaptured, as shown in FIGS. 8A-8C. In order to remove the snap-in TC 500from the TC portal 605, the clip 715 will have to be removed.

Alternatively, the TC port 605 may initially not have the clip 715 inplace. Once the snap-in TC 500 is in position with the catch groove 530aligned with the openings 710, the clip 715 can be inserted to couplethe snap-in TC 500 to the TC port 605.

Advantageously, the snap-in TC 500 is then able to be rotated 360° aspresented in FIG. 9.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, the proximal end 215 of theTC 200 can be configured as per the proximal end 515 of the snap-in TC500. More specifically, instead of coupling to the BFP fitting 312, theproximal end 215 would include a catch portion and a circumferentialcatch groove as described above. Such a TC would then be inserted in aTC port 605 per the teachings set forth above.

The foregoing subject technology has a number of benefits over the knownapproaches, including, but not limited to: eliminating unnecessaryvalves, fittings and elbows as there is no need to redirect flow to anon-local EFS device; providing a TC assembly that can rotate 360° and,therefore, additional clearance is provided with a greater degree offreedom; permitting sensor installation in areas even if a full rotationis not possible, e.g., in areas where installing the sensor package witha conventional threaded connection would not be possible due to physicalinterference(s); and with an EFS device in each TC at multiple points ona BFP, the BFP can be continuously monitored in real-time to identifypotential problems earlier without having to rely on finding an issue atthe annual checkup.

Another aspect of the present disclosure presents technology thatovercomes many of the known problems associated with wirelesscommunication in mechanical rooms where BFPs are commonly located.Specifically, it is difficult to transmit and receive wireless signalsfrom and to these mechanical rooms. Additionally, common modes ofwireless communication, such as Wi-Fi and cellular data transmission,are power intensive modes that might require more power outlets than arecommonly available is such rooms, or additional power lines which mustbe run by electricians.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a block diagram of a mechanical room 1000configured in accordance with the subject technology is shown. Themechanical room 1000 is an exemplary mechanical room that includesmechanical equipment for a building. In particular, the exemplarymechanical room 1000 includes a valve 1005 which controls some fluidflow through a building. Several devices 1002 a-1002 c (generallydevices 1002) are also included in the mechanical room 1000, including adevice configured to connect to or replace a wall light switch 1002 a, adevice connected to a light fixture 1002 b, and a device configured toattach to a wall outlet socket 1002 c. For a device configured toreplace the light switch 1002 a, the existing wall switch will bereplaced by a communicating wall switch, such as a device including atransceiver for communication with other devices 1002, as discussedherein. This device 1002 a would be connected to the in-wall power andcontinue to function as a normal light switch, controlling power to thesame light as the original switch, but would include the additionalcommunication capabilities. In this way, the existing light switch isadapted into a communicating light switch functioning as a device 1002in accordance with the system described herein.

All devices 1002 are connected, via electrical lines 1006 a-1006 c, totheir own in wall power source which powers the respective devices 1002,such as a main power supply for the building and/or the electrical grid.Notably, the devices 1002 within the mechanical room 1000 are exemplaryonly, and it should be understood that some or all devices 1002 may beomitted or replaced in different embodiments, or entirely differentdevices may be included, as could be found in typical mechanical rooms.Further, the devices 1002 can include other devices commonly found inmechanical rooms such a

The valve 1005 can be part of a backflow preventer valve (BFP) system ofthe type discussed above and shown in FIGS. 1-9. The valve 1005 canfurther include a sensor 1008 of one of the various types used with BFPvalves as discussed above. For example, the sensor 1008 can be apressure sensor, temperature sensor, pH sensor, salinity sensor, and/orwet/dry sensor, or the like, which is configured to sense fluidproperties within the valve 1005. In some cases, the valve 1005 caninclude multiple sensors each sensing different fluid properties. Themechanical room 1000 can also include multiple valves similar to thevalve 1005, each with their own sensor or sensors.

The sensor 1008 is in wireless communication with at least one of thedevices 1002 within the mechanical room 1000 over a network. The networkcan be formed through direct wireless communication between the devices1002 and the sensor 1008, or by communication of all the devices 1002and the sensor 1008 through a common transceiver or the like (notdistinctly shown). The devices 1002 and sensor 1008 are configured towirelessly communicate over the network using low power signalcommunication modes such as Bluetooth or RF. As such, it should beunderstood that all devices 1002 and the sensor 1008 can include thenecessary components for wireless communication as are known in the art,such as receivers/transmitters, processors, and the like. In every case,the valve 1005 and/or sensor 1008 will include at least a transmitterfor sending out data gathered by the sensor 1008 and at least one of thedevices 1002 will include a receiver for receiving the data from thesensor 1008. In some cases, the valve 1005 contains a signal processorbuilt into the sensor 1008 to analyze the data before transmitting asignal representative of that data.

Since the devices 1002 and sensor 1008 are all relatively local to eachother within the mechanical room 1000, and transmission out of themechanical room 1000 is not required for communication between thedevices 1002 and sensor 1008, low power signal communication stillallows for effective communication between the devices 1002 and sensor1008 with lower bandwidth usage and power consumption. Each sensor 1008on the system can be powered by a standard, replaceable battery. Sincepower consumption is low, the batteries need to be replaced infrequentlyand no wires are required to be run from the sensor 1008 to other powersources.

Eventually, the data from the sensor 1008 reaches one of the devices1002. Typically, transmission out of the mechanical room 1000 can bedifficult, and often is not possible using low power communicationtechniques. In accordance with the subject technology, there are severalways to then communicate the data out of the mechanical room 1000, to anexternal location where it can be processed and/or otherwise used. Oneway to do so is by using known power-line communication (PLC) techniquesover one or more of the electrical lines 1006. PLC techniquesessentially allow a power line to function secondarily as an Ethernetcable, eliminating the need to run an additional wire since the device1002, and by association the sensor 1008, can effectively transmit dataout of the mechanical room 1000 using the existing power lines 1006. Forexample, the device 1002 can include a transceiver connected to thepower lines 1006 which can duplex the communication over the power lineand out of the mechanical room 1000, avoiding the normally poor signalstrength associated with transmitting out of the mechanical room 1000.Once the signal is transmitted over the power lines 1006 of the buildingit can be pulled off building power system at any other receptaclelocation. In some cases, the second location will be close to a Wi-Fireceiver or mesh network or even Ethernet port. Data received at thesecond location can then be communicated over the existing power lines1006 to a central cloud 1004 where it is stored.

Referring now to FIG. 11, a block diagram of a wireless communicationsystem 1100 for a mechanical room in accordance with the subjecttechnology is shown. The system 1100 includes a mechanical room 1000which includes a valve 1005 and sensor 1008 communicating with a singledevice 1102. The device 1102 is hooked up to an electrical line 1106which is connected to an in-wall power source. Similar to the devices1002, the device 1102 can be any type of device typically found in amechanical room and electrically connected to an in-wall power source.The sensor 1008 and the device 1102 communicate over a network usinglower power signal communication. In particular, the sensor 1008measures properties at the valve 1005 and transmits data related tothose measurements to the device 1102 which receives that data. In thisway, transmission of the data from the sensor 1008 requires littlepower, allowing the sensor 1008 to be effectively powered by a battery.

The device 1102 is also directly connected to a transceiver 1112. Thetransceiver 1112 can be a separate device connected to the device 1102through a wired connection, or can be integrated as a part of the device1102. The transceiver 1112 is generally configured to transmit data outthe mechanical room using high power signal transmission (e.g. higherpower than Bluetooth or the like, such as Wi-Fi, cellular, or higherpower signal) for receipt by an external receiver 1110. As such, thetransceiver 1112 is configured to receive the signal from the sensor1008 through the network using low power communication, amplify thesignal to create a high power signal, and transmit the high power signalout of the mechanical room 1000 to the external receiver 1110. Thetransceiver 1112 can therefore include component parts configured toaccomplish these tasks, including a receiver, an amplifier, atransmitter, and a processor and/or memory as needed.

Since the transceiver 1112 is directly connected to the device 1102(i.e. locally and/or through a wired connection), the transceiver 1112is also connected to the in wall power source via the electrical line1106. Therefore the transceiver 1112 does not need to rely on a battery,and is able to transmit a high power signal indicative of data from thevalve out of the mechanical room 1110 even though the electronics on thevalve 1005 are only powered by a battery and transmitting a low poweredsignal. The transceiver 1112 can also be configured to receive signalsfrom multiple different valves within the mechanical room 1000. To thatend, many valves can be included in the mechanical room 1100 whichprovide data to the transceiver 1112 over a network using low powersignal transmission, and the transceiver 1112 can be tasked withtransmitting all of this data out of the mechanical room 1000 via a highpower signal. As such, the bulk of the power consumption needed tocommunicate data from the mechanical room 1000 is handled by thetransceiver 1112 which is connected to a reliable and continuous in-wallpower source.

Notably, in other embodiments the mechanical room 1000 can includeadditional equipment such as a boiler, hot water heater, or otherequipment which is hard wired to power (in place of, or in addition to,device 1102). Communication equipment, such as the transceiver 1112,could then be embedded directly therein and serve as a node for otherequipment within the mechanical room 1000. Thus, the boiler, hot waterheater, or other piece of equipment with embedded communicationequipment could serve as a replacement to device 1102, communicatingwith other devices within the mechanical room 1000 over a network usinglow power communication. Similarly the replacement device could thentransmit data out of the mechanical room 1000 using PLC, or other highpower communication.

Referring now to FIGS. 12a-12d , an exemplary light switch device 1200is shown which has been designed to replace a traditional light switchand functional as part of a wireless communication system within amechanical room.

Mechanical rooms often include switch boxes which are setup using astandard industrial “double switch” box housing even when only one lightswitch is installed. The light switch device 1200 shown herein istherefore configured to utilize the housing 1202 of a double switch boxhousing. Thus, the housing 1202 has a width W1 of substantially 98.3 mm,a height H1 of substantially 98.3 mm, and a depth D1 of substantially 54mm. The corners 1204 of the switch box housing 1202 are rounded, andhave a radius R1 of substantially 6.35 mm as measured in the planes ofthe front and rear faces 1210, 1212 of the box housing 1202. A fullyfunctional light switch 1206 is installed on a first side 1208 of thehousing 1202, which can be configured to connect to an electrical powerline within the building. The light switch 1206 has a width W2 ofsubstantially 38.85 mm, a height H2 of substantially 73 mm, and a depthD2 of substantially 54 mm.

On the side 1214 of the housing 1202 opposite the light switch 1206, acommunication device 1216 is installed in the remaining unused space.The communication device 1216 is configured to communicate over thenetwork within the mechanical room using low power signal communication,and can transmit a signal out of the mechanical room using high powersignal communication. Thus, the communication device 1216 is designed tobe small enough to fit inside the unused space in the housing 1202, butalso robust enough to carry out the intended communication functions.This is accomplished by connecting three separate PCBs 1218, 1220, 1222in a three layer stack 1224 (see FIGS. 12c, 12d ). However, it should benoted that a three layer stack 1224 is not an absolute requirement, andthe components of the three layer stack 1224 shown herein may becombined in other ways, such as within a single integrated unit.

The communication device 1216 includes a communication PCB 1218 with awireless processor on the top of the stack 1224, near the front face1210 of the housing 1202. A PLC PCB 1220 is positioned in the middle ofthe stack 1224 and has a transformer 1226. A power PCB 1222 (e.g. PLCB)is positioned on the bottom of the stack 1224, near the rear face 1212of the housing 1202, allowing the power PCB 1222 to easily connect to anin wall power source. The power PCB 1222 has a separate transformer1230. Interconnectors 1228 on opposite sides of the stack 1224 runbetween the three PCBs 1218, 1220, 1222, forming an electricalconnection therebetween. The stack 1224 has a height H3 of substantially42 mm, allowing it to fit upright within the depth D1 (i.e. of 54 mm) ofthe housing 1202.

Referring now to FIG. 13, a block diagram shows the electricalconfiguration of a light switch device similar to the light switchdevice 1200. As described above, the light switch device includes acommunication device 1300 and light switch 1302 within a housing 1304for a double switch light box. The light switch 1302 connects buildingpower lines (i.e. live line 1306 and neutral line 1308) to power a lightbulb 1310, allowing the light bulb 1310 to be switched on and off. Thecommunication device 1300 includes a 3 PCB stack, as discussed above.The communication PCB 1312 includes a 2.4G wireless communication system1314 connected to an antenna 1316 extending out of the housing 1304. Thecommunication PCB 1312 is configured to wirelessly communicate withother devices within the mechanical room using low power signalcommunication, such as Bluetooth, Zigbee, WirelessHART, or the like. Insome cases, the communication PCB 1312 can also be configured totransmit via a high powered signal communication, such as cellular orWi-Fi, instead of, or in addition to, PLC to transmit a signal out ofthe mechanical room. In this way, data from devices in the mechanicalroom can be transmitted within the room using low power communication,and the communication PCB 1312 can then gather and transfer any datafrom the devices out of the mechanical room using a high power signal. APLC PCB 1318 with a PLC coupling signal transformer 1320 andPLC/microcontroller unit 1322 couples signals between the communicationPCB 1312 and a power PCB 1324.

The power PCB 1324 includes a power transformer rectifier 1326 whichconnects the power PCB 1324 to the power lines 1306, 1308 of thebuilding and generates 12V DC from the building main AC. The power PCB1324 includes two regulators 1328, 1330 which can be a 16V DC regulator1328 and a 3V3 DC regulator 1330. The 16V DC regulator 1328 is used inthe PLC PCB 1318 for amplifiers and to supply the 3V3 DC regulator 1330.A zero cross circuit 1332 monitors the main AC and detects a zero crosspoint, this data being fed to the PLC/microcontroller 322 of the PLC PCB1318 for syncing transmissions to the main line frequency. The 3V3 DCregulator 1330 is used to drive the communication PCB 1312.

The communication device 1300 can advantageously be powered by theconnection from the power PCB 1324 to the building powerlines 1306,1308. Receiving power directly from the powerlines 1306, 1308 of thebuilding can be particularly advantageous when the since the deviceimplements a high power signal communication which requires a moresignificant power source then could be reliably obtained from a typicalbattery. Further, if the communication device 1300 is installed in anexisting light switch box housing 1302, building power lines willalready be running to the box, and therefore new wiring is not required.Thus, the communication device 1300 can be installed within the lightswitch box housing 1302 by one mechanic in a single trip to themechanical room, without the need to install additional mechanicalcomponents or electrical wiring.

The communication devices 1300 operates using a suitable PLC protocol,such as G3-PLC. G3-PLC has been found to be suitable for use in a devicewithin large buildings as it capable of long range, data rates greaterthan sensor data rates, and can be implemented with readily availablemicrochips. PLC is carried out by superimposing a high frequencymodulation onto the power cables to transmit data, with encryption andpairing handled by the PLC protocol (e.g. G3-PLC) and an evaluationmodule complying with FCC emission requirements.

Referring now to FIG. 14, an exemplary block diagram of a system 1400configured to pass data between devices within a mechanical room 1402and transmit data out of the mechanical room 1402 in accordance with thesubject technology is shown.

The mechanical room 1402 includes a number of sensors 1404, which can bemeasurement devices connected to various pieces of equipment, such asvalves, test cocks (e.g. TC 200), pipes, or the like to measurecharacteristics such as pressure, fluid flow, temperature, or others.All sensors 1404 are designed to be smart and connected over a networkwithin the mechanical room 1402. The sensors 1404 transmit (and in somecases, receive) signals over the network using a low power signal. Insome cases, each individual sensor 1404 will be powered by a dedicatedbattery. Thus, low power signal communication allows the sensors 1404 toconserve power, increasing battery life and requiring less frequentbattery replacement.

The mechanical room 1402 also includes a light switch device 1406contained within a light box housing, which can be similar to the lightswitch device 1200 discussed above, except where otherwise shown anddescribed. The light switch device 1406 is connected to a main buildingpower line 1414 to receive power, and for PLC. The light switch device1406 includes a light switch 1408 and a communication device 1412 whichcan be similar to the communication devices 1216, 1300, except whereotherwise shown and described. The light switch 1408 is connected to alighting fixture 1410 within the mechanical room 1402. The communicationdevice 1412 is configured to communicate with the sensors 1404 using lowpower signal communication. In particular, all sensors 1404 within themechanical room 1402 can report to the communication device 1412 usinglow power signal communication. The communication device 1412 isconfigured to transmit the received data from the sensors 1404 out ofthe mechanical room 1402 using high power signal communication. Inparticular, the communication device 1412 is configured to transmit dataover the building power line 1414 (using PLC) or through a wirelesssignal (or through some combination of both). For example, wirelesstransmission out of a mechanical room 1402 can be unreliable. Thereforethe communication device 1412 can transmit using PLC when the wirelesssignal is poor. Alternatively, the communication device 1412 can beconfigured to primarily use PLC, switching to wireless communicationwhen using the power line 1414 for communication is undesirable.

The signal transmitted out of the mechanical room 1402 can betransmitted to a remote PLC IP gateway 1416 (i.e. a wireless router)elsewhere in the building. The gateway 1416 can be positioned in thebuilding in an area with much better wireless coverage, as compared tothe mechanical room 1402. Therefore, once the signal has reached thegateway 1416, the signal can be transmitted out of the building forstorage in a cloud 1418, or other storage location, where the data canbe accessed by other devices. Alternatively, a number of additionallinked routers 1416 or repeaters could be used to transmit the signalfrom the gateway 1416 out of the building and to a desired storagelocation or device.

In some cases, each sensor 1404 can have a radio-frequencyidentification (RFID) tag. The RFID tags each include an integratedcircuit and antenna configured to transmit data over the network and tothe communication device 1412 using low power radio frequency. Since thecommunication device 1412 may be further away from some sensors 1404then others, the sensors 1404 can also transmit signals in between oneanother using tag to tag communication, with one or more sensors 1404closest to the communication device 1412 ultimately providing datadirectly to the communication device 1412. Transmissions from a givenRFID tag include a unique identifier which allows the communicationdevice 1412 to identify which sensor 1404 each signal (or data)originated from. The RFID tags can be passive tags with no internalpower source, the tags being powered by energy transmitted from thecommunication device 1412. In some cases, a dedicated power source canbe placed within the mechanical room near one or more of the RFID tagsand the RFID tags can provide unit to unit power between one another. Inother cases, one or more RFID tags can be active tags each including adedicated power source so that the RFID tag need not be powered by anexternal source, allowing the RFID tag to remain always on if desired.

While various low power signal types are discussed herein, it should beunderstood that low power signals can include Bluetooth lower energy(BLE), Zigbee, WirelessHART, RF, or the like, in different embodiments.Likewise, while various high power signal types are discussed herein, itshould be understood that high power signals can include cellular,wireless, or the like in difference embodiments. These examples are inno way meant to be all inclusive, it being understood that one ofordinary skill in the art will be familiar with other similar low andhigh power signal types which may be utilized.

It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the pertinent artthat the functions of several elements may, in alternative embodiments,be carried out by fewer elements, or by a single element. Similarly, insome other alternate embodiments, any functional element may performfewer, or different, operations than those described with respect to theillustrated embodiment. Also, functional elements (e.g., check valves,shut-off valves, and the like) shown as distinct for purposes ofillustration may be incorporated within other functional elements in aparticular implementation.

While the subject technology has been described with respect to variousembodiments, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate thatvarious changes and/or modifications can be made to the subjecttechnology without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A wireless communication system located within amechanical room, the wireless communication system comprising: a valveincluding at least one sensor, wherein the at least one sensor isconfigured to wirelessly communicate over a network using low powersignal communication; and at least one device configured to connect toan in-wall power source, the device further configured to wirelesslycommunicate over the network using low power signal communication. 2.The wireless communication system of claim 1, wherein a first device ofthe at least one devices is configured to connect to a light fixture,the first device connected to the in-wall power source via the lightfixture.
 3. The wireless communication system of claim 1, wherein: afirst device of the at least one devices is configured to connect to awall outlet socket, the first device connected to the in-wall powersource via the wall outlet socket; and the low power signal istransmitted out of the mechanical room via at least one electrical lineof the in-wall power source using power-line communication.
 4. Thewireless communication system of claim 1, wherein a first device of theat least one devices is configured to replace a first light switchcontrolling a light, the first device connected to the in-wall powersource and including a second light switch to control the light.
 5. Thewireless communication system of claim 1, further comprising: atransceiver configured to: receive a signal through the network usinglow power communication; amplify the signal to create a high powersignal; and transmit the high power signal out of the mechanical room.6. The wireless communication system of claim 1, wherein the at leastone sensor comprises at least one of: a pressure sensor; a temperaturesensor; a pH sensor; a salinity sensor; and a wet/dry sensor, whereinthe low power signal communication is one of the following: Bluetooth;and radio frequency (RF) communication.
 7. The wireless communicationsystem of claim 1, wherein: the at least one sensor includes atransmitter configured to transmit a signal using low powercommunication; and the at least one device includes a receiverconfigured to receive the signal using low power communication.
 8. Thewireless communication system of claim 1, wherein a first sensor of theat least one of the sensors comprises: a processor to analyze data fromthe first sensor and generate a signal based on the data; and atransmitter configured to transmit the signal based on the data.
 9. Awireless communication system located within a mechanical room, thewireless communication system comprising: a backflow prevention systemhaving: a backflow preventer; a system fitting provided on the backflowprevention, the system fitting having a first end and a second end; anda test cock, having: a body portion having a distal end and acorresponding distal opening, a proximal end and a correspondingproximal opening, the proximal and distal openings in fluid connectionwith a space defined within the body portion; a body portion fittingdisposed in the body portion, the body portion fitting providing a fluidconnection with the space; and a fluid sensor configured to wirelesslycommunicate over a network using low power signal communication, thefluid sensor provided in the body portion fitting, in fluid connectionwith the space, wherein the second end of the system fitting is coupledto the proximal end of the body portion; and at least one deviceconfigured to connect to an in-wall power source, the device furtherconfigured to wirelessly communicate over the network using low powersignal communication.
 10. The wireless communication system of claim 9,wherein: the test cock further comprises: a catch portion provided onthe body portion, wherein an outside diameter of the catch portion isgreater than an outside diameter of the proximal end of the bodyportion; and a catch groove, provided on the body portion, adjacent tothe catch portion, wherein the second end of the system fitting is sizedto receive the catch portion, and wherein the system fitting furthercomprises a spring clip configured to couple to the catch groove. 11.The wireless communication system of claim 9, wherein the test cockfurther comprises a ball valve, disposed in the body portion, in fluidconnection with the distal opening and the space.
 12. The wirelesscommunication system of claim 9, wherein the test cock further comprisesa spring clip coupling the fluid sensor to the body portion fitting. 13.The wireless communication system of claim 9, wherein a first device ofthe at least one devices is configured to connect to a light fixture orwall outlet socket, or adapt an existing light switch into acommunicating light switch.
 14. The wireless communication system ofclaim 9, wherein the low power signal communication is one of thefollowing: Bluetooth; and radio frequency (RF) communication.
 15. Thewireless communication system of claim 9, wherein the low power signalis transmitted out of the mechanical room via at least one electricalline of the in-wall power source using power-line communication.
 16. Thewireless communication system of claim 9, further comprising: atransceiver configured to: receive a signal through the network usinglow power communication; amplify the signal to create a high powersignal; and transmit the high power signal out of the mechanical room.17. A wireless communication system comprising: a plurality of sensors,each sensor configured to measure data and communicate over a networkusing low power signal communication; and a light switch device having adouble switch box housing, the light switch device connected to anin-wall power source having: a light switch on a first side of thedouble switch box housing connected to a light fixture; and acommunication device on a second side of the double switch box housing,the second side opposite the first side, the communication deviceconfigured to: communicate with the sensors over the network using lowpower signal communication to obtain the data; and transmit the data toa remote gateway using high power signal communication, wherein: theremote gateway is configured to transmit the data to a cloud; and atleast one of the plurality of sensors is connected to a valve.
 18. Thewireless communication system of claim 17, wherein the low power signalcommunication includes at least one of the following: Bluetooth lowerenergy (BLE), Zigbee, WirelessHART, and RF; and the communication deviceis configured to transmit the data to the remote gateway using: powerline communication over an electrical line of the in-wall power source,the electrical line connected to the gateway; and high power wirelesstransmission.
 19. The wireless communication system of claim 17 whereinthe valve is a test cock for a backflow prevention system, the test cockhaving: a body portion having a distal end and a corresponding distalopening, a proximal end and a corresponding proximal opening, theproximal and distal openings in fluid connection with a space definedwithin the body portion; a body portion fitting disposed in the bodyportion, the body portion fitting providing a fluid connection with thespace; and the at least one of the plurality of sensors connected to thevalve, the at least one of the plurality of sensors provided in the bodyportion fitting, in fluid connection with the space, wherein the secondend of the system fitting is coupled to the proximal end of the bodyportion.
 20. The wireless communication system of claim 17, furthercomprising a wherein each sensor includes a radio-frequencyidentification (RFID) tag, each RFID tag configured to communicate with,and transfer power between, other RFID tags using tag to tagcommunication.